What is the meaning of Exodus 10:27? But – Setting and Contrast • The verse begins with “But,” signaling a sharp turn from Pharaoh’s last negotiation attempt (Exodus 10:24) and Moses’ firm refusal (10:25–26). • Up to this point, nine plagues have fallen; the dread of the tenth is building (10:28–29). • This contrast underscores that human bargaining cannot override divine decree (Isaiah 46:9-10; Job 42:2). the LORD – Sovereign Actor • “the LORD” (YHWH) is the personal, covenant name revealed in Exodus 3:14—God is personally directing events, not an impersonal force. • Scripture consistently shows God steering rulers for His purposes: – “The king’s heart is a waterway in the hand of the LORD; He directs it where He pleases” (Proverbs 21:1). – Nebuchadnezzar confessed, “He does as He pleases… No one can restrain His hand” (Daniel 4:35). • God’s sovereignty guarantees the deliverance He promised to Abraham (Genesis 15:13-14) and reiterated to Moses (Exodus 6:6-8). hardened – Divine Judicial Action • The hardening is real, deliberate, and judicial. Earlier, Pharaoh hardened his own heart (Exodus 8:15, 32; 9:34); now God confirms that chosen path. • Key pattern: – God foretold, “I will harden Pharaoh’s heart” (Exodus 4:21; 7:3). – Pharaoh acted in pride; God’s response locks that pride in place as judgment (Romans 1:24-28). • Other examples of judicial hardening: – “For this reason God sends them a powerful delusion” (2 Thessalonians 2:11). – “The LORD hardened their hearts to wage war against Israel” (Joshua 11:20). • Romans 9:18 summarizes: “He has mercy on whom He wants to have mercy, and He hardens whom He wants to harden.” Pharaoh’s heart – The Seat of Rebellion • In Scripture the “heart” is the control center of thoughts, affections, and will (Proverbs 4:23; Mark 7:21-22). • Pharaoh’s core was already set against God’s authority: “Who is the LORD, that I should obey His voice?” (Exodus 5:2). • A hardened heart becomes progressively insensitive to truth (Hebrews 3:7-9). This is literal, not metaphorical—Pharaoh’s resolve is unyielding despite catastrophic loss. and he was unwilling – Human Responsibility Displayed • Even after divine hardening, Pharaoh’s unwillingness is described as his own act. Scripture presents both truths side by side: – God hardens. – Pharaoh refuses. • Personal accountability remains: “You refuse to come to Me to have life” (John 5:40). • James 1:13-14 reminds us God never injects evil desire; the sinner’s will is already inclined toward sin. Pharaoh is judged for what he truly wants. to let them go – The Stubborn Resistance to God’s Command • God’s command was clear: “Let My people go, so that they may worship Me” (Exodus 9:1). • Pharaoh’s refusal opposes: – Israel’s covenant purpose (Exodus 19:4-6). – God’s display of glory to the nations (Exodus 9:16; Romans 9:17). • Each plague escalates the cost of rebellion, yet Pharaoh clings to control—an enduring warning (1 Corinthians 10:5-6). summary Exodus 10:27 shows God decisively hardening Pharaoh’s already rebellious heart, revealing divine sovereignty and human responsibility in full harmony. The Lord personally acts, confirming Pharaoh’s sinful choices, so that His power, faithfulness, and glory will be unmistakable when He liberates Israel. |
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